Ernie Ward, DVM

Dr. Ernie Ward is a graduate of the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine and is founder and chief-of-staff at Seaside Animal Care in Calabash, N.C. Dr. Ward's professional achievements include introducing senior pet care guidelines to veterinary practices, as well as developing and publishing protocols for monitoring pets who receive long-term medication.

In 2005, Dr. Ward founded the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention to help raise awareness about the dangers of excessive weight in dogs and cats. He's been featured on CNN, Animal Planet and the Today show. Since 2007, Dr. Ward has been resident veterinarian for the Rachael Ray Show.

Dr. Ward has contributed to more than 55 veterinary journals and has published three books, including Chow Hounds, which covers dog obesity and nutrition. He has been featured in numerous print outlets, including Good Housekeeping, Prevention and USA Today.

Dr. Ward is also a certified personal trainer, a USA Triathlon certified coach and an Ironman athlete. He shares his home with his wife; two daughters; his beach mutt, Sandy; and two feisty cats, Freddie and Itty Bitty Kitty.